Shield of Arms Held by an Angel of the Resurrection [reverse]
c. 1573
![Shield of Arms Held by an Angel of the Resurrection [reverse] by Spanish 16th Century](https://images.artheonmuseum.org/nga/thumb/shield-of-arms-held-by-an-angel-of-the-nga-108139.webp)
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
overall (diameter): 5.29 cm (2 1/16 in.) gross weight: 40.92 gr (0.09 lb.) axis: 12:00
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of Lisa and Leonard Baskin
Accession Number
1998.108.23.b
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze medallion, titled *Shield of Arms Held by an Angel the Resurrection [reverse]*, hails from 16th-century Spain around1573. Measuring just 5.29 cm (2 1/16 in.) in diameter and weighing a mere 40.92 grams, it the Renaissance mastery of small-scale metalwork. Crafted by an anonymous Spanish artist, its intimate size suggests it may have served as a personal devotional object, seal, or jewelry element, fitting neatly in the palm for private contemplation. The reverse features an angel bearing a shield of arms, symbolizing resurrection and heraldic pride amid Spain's fervent C...